EMPOWERING PROBATION OFFICERS TO COMBAT SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG CHILDREN

Precious Mupenzi

• The Department of Social Development (DSD) is tackling youth substance abuse by equipping probation officers with specialised training through the “Wake-Up Call” Anti-Substance Abuse Programme.
• The two-day engagement focuses on trauma-informed care, early intervention techniques, and resilience-building strategies, aimed at empowering officers to support vulnerable youth more effectively.
• By addressing the root causes of addiction and creating safe spaces for open dialogue, DSD is reinforcing its commitment to proactive, community-based solutions to help at-risk children lead healthier lives.

Recognising the complex challenges of youth substance abuse, the Department of Social Development (DSD) has hosted an intensive “Wake-Up Call” Anti-Substance Abuse Programme for Children. The two-day engagement, currently underway at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, brings together probation officers from DSD district service points nationwide to address the rising issues of substance abuse among vulnerable youth.

The programme aims to equip probation officers with essential tools and strategies to support young people struggling with addiction and prevent relapse. Led by national experts, including Mrs Linda Makhathini, Social Work Policy Manager for Social Crime and Prevention, and Ms Linky Mashile, Social Worker at Soshanguve Secure Care Centre CYCC, the training emphasises trauma-informed care, resilience-building, and community-based solutions.

According to Ms Makhathini, the programme is driven by legal mandates and the pressing needs within communities. “As DSD, we are guided by the Justice Act, the Child Justice Act, and the Children’s Act, which require us to provide therapeutic programmes. The Children’s Act mandates therapeutic support for at-risk children, while the Child Justice Act requires DSD to provide diversion services, including programmes for children in conflict with the law.”

During the training, probation officers were introduced to early intervention techniques, including early detection, supportive engagement for both child and caregivers, and creating safe spaces where youth can discuss their challenges openly and free from stigma. These strategies are crucial in addressing the root causes of addiction, such as trauma and socio-economic factors, which often drive young people towards substance use.

Ms Makhathini highlighted how recent legislative changes inform DSD’s programme approach. “The age of criminal responsibility has now increased to 12 years, which means that children must be managed within the framework of the Children’s Act. For children under 12, social workers step in, even without a Child Justice Court order, through the Children’s Court to support those who are at risk or have been involved with substances and are in conflict with the law.”

The DSD has structured its anti-substance programmes to support different age groups effectively. For children aged 12 to 21, the “Wake-Up Call” programme provides education, prevention strategies, and addiction recovery support tailored to their needs. Meanwhile, for younger children under 12, the “Stop to Start” programme is designed to guide them towards healthy behaviours and choices before substance abuse becomes an issue.

Commenting on the importance of the programme, one of the delegates emphasised the need for continuous learning. “This training is crucial for us as probation officers because substance abuse dynamics and trends are constantly evolving. We need to stay up-to-date with new skills and techniques to be effective in our roles,” she said. “It also provides a platform for us to share best practices from different provinces, which strengthens our ability to support children facing substance abuse challenges.”

Through these specialised programmes, the DSD emphasises the importance of reaching youth at different stages of development. Probation officers trained under these initiatives are now better equipped to offer support, recognise early signs of substance dependency, and implement preventive measures in their communities.

“By building resilience and offering trauma-informed care, our probation officers are on the front lines, providing children with alternatives to substance use and pathways to better futures,” Ms Makhathini added.

The “Wake-Up Call” Anti-Substance Abuse Programme underscores the Department’s commitment to creating safe environments for youth, empowering probation officers to guide them through challenges, and fostering supportive community spaces. This programme reflects a proactive, compassionate approach to tackling youth substance abuse and promoting healthier lives for South Africa’s children.